If you love the crunchy, savory flavors of an egg roll but want a quicker, lighter way to enjoy them, this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute game changer. It captures all those beloved tastes—savory pork, crisp cabbage, and that perfect hint of garlic and ginger—in a vibrant, colorful stir fry that comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with an easy homemade Asian-inspired dish, this recipe is your new go-to for a comforting, satisfying meal that doesn’t require deep frying or complicated prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are everyday staples that combine to create a medley of flavors and textures—from tender ground meat to fresh crunchy vegetables, all brightened with a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. Each item plays a vital role in making this dish irresistibly delicious.
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef): Provides savory depth and heartiness to the dish; ground pork is classic for authentic flavor.
- 2 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty aroma that sets the tone for the stir fry’s base.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a tender bite once cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that unmistakable savory kick.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix): Adds crunch, color, and freshness reminiscent of egg roll fillings.
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded: Offers subtle sweetness and vibrant orange contrast.
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color): Adds juicy brightness and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): The salty backbone that unites all flavors perfectly.
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Provides tangy balance to the savory and sweet components.
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness): Adds a luscious sweet note and depth.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Warms up the dish with subtle spice and zest.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat): Gives it a gentle kick that can be adjusted to your taste.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Fresh bite and a vibrant finishing touch.
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds nutty crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Meat
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your ground pork or preferred meat. Cook, breaking it up with your spatula, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish, and browning the meat well ensures maximum flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so the stir fry doesn’t become greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. This layer of aromatics infuses the dish and complements the richness of the meat while setting up the vegetable base.
Step 3: Add the Crunchy Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry these together for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender but still crisp, preserving the signature crunch that reminds you of an egg roll’s filling. This balance of textures is crucial for that delightful eating experience.
Step 4: Prepare and Pour the Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, optional hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Pour this flavorful sauce over the meat and vegetable mixture, making sure to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to marry all the flavors and allow the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a glossy, appetizing finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe by sprinkling chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds on top. These garnishes add brightness, texture, and that final pop of flavor that’ll make your dish irresistible the moment it hits the table. Serve it immediately for the best taste and texture experience.
How to Serve Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds are classic garnishes that not only enhance visual appeal but also contribute fresh, crunchy textures and nutty undertones. If you want to amp it up, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add a fun twist.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or even garlic fried rice for a hearty accompaniment. For a lower-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside simple stir-fried noodles to soak up all the savory sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family meal, consider serving your Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce wraps for a fresh, handheld bite. Alternatively, pile it over crispy wonton chips or use as a filling for steamed buns to turn it into a creative fusion dish that pleasantly surprises your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and freshness when reheated.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stir fry in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may add a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground pork is traditional and adds great flavor, ground chicken, turkey, or even beef are excellent alternatives that work just as well. Each will bring a slightly different taste profile but the overall dish will remain delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, you can swap out the meat for tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly and consider adding extra seasonings or mushrooms to boost umami flavors.
What can I substitute if I don’t have hoisin sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce on hand, you can leave it out or substitute with a mix of soy sauce, a bit of honey or brown sugar, and a dash of five-spice powder to mimic the sweetness and depth hoisin brings.
How do I keep the vegetables crisp and not soggy?
To maintain that perfect crunch, avoid overcooking and stir-fry the vegetables on high heat for a shorter amount of time. Also, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding the sauce.
Can I make the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check any other sauces used, like hoisin, to ensure they are gluten-free friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is a vibrant, delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite appetizer in a hearty, wholesome bowl. It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for sharing with friends. Give it a try—you’ll likely find it becomes a regular in your rotation, perfect for those craving bold, fresh, and satisfying meals that never feel complicated.
Print
Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Egg Roll Stir Fry recipe is a quick and flavorful dish inspired by traditional egg roll flavors, combining ground meat and crisp vegetables in a savory Asian-style sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it’s easy to customize with your choice of protein and vegetables, and ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork or your choice of meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and release their aroma. Next, add the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become tender but still retain a pleasant crispness.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. This sauce will provide the signature sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor reminiscent of egg rolls.
- Combine and Simmer: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked meat and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, giving time for the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through thoroughly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your egg roll stir fry with chopped green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds, if desired, for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately on its own or over steamed rice or noodles for a filling meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground pork with chicken, turkey, or beef depending on your preference.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure the hoisin sauce is gluten-free or omit it.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level according to your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh and use vegetable oil instead of sesame oil.
